Get in the FIGHT - Cancer to 5K Registration

Ongoing research shows that light to moderate exercise is an excellent way to combat fatigue and depression; two significant side effects that occur both during and after a variety of cancer treatments. The Ulman Cancer Fund’s CANCER to 5K program has been developed for cancer survivors who are currently in treatment for cancer and for cancer survivors who have completed treatment and are looking to add fitness to their current lifestyle.

The emotions at the CANCER to 5K Team’s most recent race – The Survivor Harbor 7 – in Baltimore, MD confirmed the claims made in this research. Participants, volunteers, coaches and spectators were bursting with pride every time a yellow CANCER to 5K shirt crossed the finish line. The members of the CT5K team have been through plenty of physical and emotional challenges in their lives, so it was remarkable to see them take control of their bodies and smile as they crossed that line and celebrated their great accomplishment on race day!

On Saturday, August 1 The Ulman Cancer Fund’s CANCER to 5K Team began the FALL 2009 training program. The program provides free 10 week training for all Cancer Survivors, ages 18-40+, regardless of diagnosis and/or treatment status.

This Fall The CANCER to 5K training will offer two (2) distance training programs:

5K & 7 Mile. The Team will be running in the Baltimore Running Festival 5K race and fielding two (2) 4-person Marathon Relay teams (7-miles per relay leg). The races will take place on Saturday, October 10, 2009 in Baltimore, MD. This season's training period is 10 weeks due to the race date as opposed to the normal 12-week training period.

* Cancer Survivors who are NEW to the CANCER to 5K program can train for the 5K race or the Marathon Relay Team (7-mile training). Training includes a personalized training schedule and coaching, free registration into the race, group training opportunities and a CT5K tshirt to be worn in the race, water-bottle and finisher medal (Medal presented upon finishing the race).

Upon registration, the CANCER to 5K Coaches will contact you to talk to you about your current fitness to get familiar with your experience and pace.

* Cancer Survivors who are ALUMNI of the CANCER to 5K program have the option to train sign up for either the 5K or the Marathon Relay team (7-mile training). Training includes a personalize training schedule and coaching, discounted registration into the race, a free tech tshirt, group training opportunities and a chance to reconnect with the training group and encourage and support new team members!

There are alternatives for those interested in the program that live out of the DC/VA area. Cancer to 5K offers coaching for "out-of-area" survivors as well. You can choose to sign up to train and race for the Baltimore Running Festival; do the training from home and meet up with the Team to run on race day OR you can choose a 5K or 7-mile race in your location (in/or around October 10, 2009 - within 1-2 weeks is recommended) and we'll support you with training and encouragement and get you to your RACE DAY GOAL!

Registration for the FALL 2009 Program is OPEN. Details on times and meeting locations for the Saturday morning and Tuesday evening Group Workouts can be found on the website: http://cancerto5k.com/

Open Registration for Cancer Survivors will close on Sunday, August 9, 2009.

Not a Cancer Survivor?

Volunteer positions for experienced runners are available on the CANCER to 5K team. We have a need for Pace Leaders to join us on either Saturday or Tuesday group workouts to help and we have a need for Race Day Sherpas to run with new runners on Race Day (October 1, 2009.)

Volunteers are welcome to all group workouts to train with the group and get to know the new runners prior to race day. Volunteer Runners who choose to be Race Day Sherpas (both 5K & 7 mile RELAY distance options) will be given a CANCER to 5K tech t-shirt and water-bottle for race day. Race registration details will be provided when you sign up as a volunteer.

Summer is going to be over before you know it! Come on out and join the Team as a Runner or a Volunteer! The Cancer to 5K program is a great way to get in shape, connect with fellow Cancer Survivors, conquer new challenges and GET IN THE FIGHT.

The rewards of the program go miles beyond the actual miles, medals and tshirts. These individuals form a team of survivors that serve as a unit of support for each other and inspiration for all.

"IT"S ABOUT LAUREL"

This is an excerpt of a campaign that will be airing worldwide as part of the LiveSTRONG "wear yellow" initiative. A great piece about Laurel's fight and her relationship with her twin sister Bec. We are proud to have them as a part of TEAM FIGHT and continually inspiring us to continue with the fight. There is much work to be done and please become involved.

Surviving with a SMILE

Go to most running races and watch the faces of the finishers - you'll see grimaces, tears, frowns and smiles - every conceivable emotion can be seen at the Finish Line.

But there is a something in those smiles - joy, triumph, pride, sometimes a hint of relief...those are the people that I am drawn to every time. I want to know what makes them smile!



On Sunday at the Survivor Harbor 7 race in Baltimore, MD - Team CANCER to 5K: 20 runners & volunteers strong, all finished their races with BIG SMILES!

This season the CANCER to 5K program trained 15 runners for 12-weeks to run either the 4-mile or the 7-mile distance of the Survivor Harbor 7 race. Coach Bob Shaver led the way every Tuesday and Saturday at group workouts along with the help of this seasons new group of Assistant Coaches (Arnetta D., Destiney I., Monica R. and Andrea H.) and our ever present and dedicated group of volunteer pace leaders helped to encourage the group of survivors to new distances.

While in the beginning of the program, the common tie that binds this diverse group of people together is CANCER - either as a survivor, a supporter, a supportive family member, a volunteer - at the end of 12 weeks - it is the running, the training and the common goal to challenge themselves and "LiveSTRONG" that makes this group a Team.

Pace doesn't matter for Team CANCER to 5K - we cover the every part of the collective PACK (Front, Middle and Back) - what matters is that we are in this together - committed to taking a risk, trying something new (running) and showing ourselves and those around us that we will not let "cancer" determine what is possible and that we can reclaim our health - on our own terms and go onto to achieve great things!

With all these "personal goals", you would think that all that matters is the Finish Line - but that is not the case. This year, we had a few Teammates who were not able to race - those Teammates were there with us - in our hearts and minds as we covered the distance. They are facing the challenges of different fight's this season - recovery from injury, cancer diagnosis of family members, complications/reoccurrence of cancer & even happy changes in family status. All these challenges serve as a reminder to us all that STRENGTH and ENDURANCE are important in all facets of our life to be nurtured and encouraged and that to "LiveSTRONG" can have so many definitions.

For Helen , Shawn , Jessica W., Alisa and Katy S. - you were with us, every mile.

CONGRATULATIONS to the SPRING 2009 CANCER to 5K Team! You did it!!

FALL 2009 Season starts August 1, 2009: Come explore the meaning of the word ENDURANCE as a Cancer Survivor - One Mile at a Time! CANCER to 5K

My Sister, My Teammate! "The Gannoe Sisters"

This week we are delighted to feature the winner of the ExtraOrdinary Runner Award for May 2009, Heather Gannoe.

In her interview she shares her boundless enthusiasm for running, recovering from a soft-drink addiction, her joy as a mother, and her devotion to her sister.
We think you'll enjoy getting to know more about her running, racing, and life outside of running.
Welcome & Congratulations, Heather!

What was the hardest part of running when you started? How has it changed over the last few years?
The hardest part of running when I started was the actual "starting" itself. It is so hard in the beginning. It hurts, you are sucking wind, you hate it, you wonder why you even bother. But once you start to see results, you realize all of that hurt pays off! And then comes the runners high we all love! Over the years, I've learned that you just have to push through those hard days, because those are the days that will pay off during a race! Without those horrible days, you will never improve. And you will never appreciate the good runs!

How is your running different and how has it changed with kids?
My running is different today because I consider myself in the beginner stages once again. I had to quit running halfway through my last pregnancy due to some complications. And after the baby was born, I had a really hard time adjusting to life with two children for the first few months. So running has been on the backburner for the last year. I'm very happy to be slowly working my way back. The current challenges I face are obviously working around the kids. Many of my runs are done with them in the jog stroller, but I still can't just run out the door whenever I feel like it. First I have to take baby inventory: Is everyone fed? Diapers changed? I have to pack snacks, sippy cups, toys, make sure they are wearing appropriate clothing for the weather...getting ready is almost a workout in itself! We don't have a lot of family in town, and their father and I work opposite shifts, so solo-runs are few and far in between, but it makes me appreciate them that much more! I aspire to one day be one of those "early morning" runners while everyone in the house still sleeps, but with the baby still nursing, he is usually up before I am!
What is your favorite training or racing distance?
My favorite racing distance is the 5k. Just long enough to challenge yourself, but short enough that you can go all out from the start.

What is your favorite race?
I think my favorite race so far has been the Virginia Beach Shamrock 1/2 marathon. It was a beautiful, flat, course, with amazing crowd and race support. And some of the funniest water-stops I've ever seen! I'm running the Virginia Beach Rock and Roll 1/2 marathon this September, I can't wait to go back!

Tell us about your recent breakup with your favorite drink? Why now?
I am a Mountain Dew junkie...hopefully soon to be "former junkie". I would drink it for breakfast like others drink coffee. And then lunch, and then dinner...some days I'm sure most of my caloric intake was from Mountain Dew alone! I've always threatened to quit, but would never make it more than 12 hours without caving in to a craving. This time, a combination between not being able to lose the last 5-10 lbs of baby weight, not being able to survive mornings without caffeine, and knowing that I need to properly fuel my body if I want to become more serious about my running, made me decide to quit for good. I'm currently on day number 5 soda free! I already feel so much better, it's hard to describe! And I've seriously already lost a few pounds! Laying off the soda has also made me lay off the junk food, they seemed to go hand in hand. I'm still craving the Mtn. Dew, I won't lie, it has been hard, but I really haven't had any sort of craving for any junk food.

What is on your list of big running goals?
As most runners can relate, the big goal on my radar is currently a Boston Marathon qualifying time. I hate to admit it, but I didn't properly train for my first two marathons, and my finishing times reflected it. I am in the very beginning stages of training for an October marathon (Baltimore) and plan to really apply myself and stick to the training plan. I know that physically, with training, my body is capable of a 3:40 marathon. I think the hardest part will be training my brain to believe it! Other goals I have are a sub 20:00 5k (even a 19:59 will make me happy!) and in the very BIG picture, I'd love to complete a marathon in all 50 states, plus D.C.

What are your "must have's" for running - gear, gadgets, etc?
A good pair of sneakers and some comfy running clothes are all I need! I currently run in Adidas Supernova Glides. I was a die hard Adidas Brevard fan, but I have been having a hard time finding them, so I switched. Although I don't always run with it, i do love my Garmin 305. I don't utilize the heart rate monitor as much as I should, but I just love knowing my exact distance and pace.

Tell us more about your sister - is she still doing well? How does she feel about your salute to her?
She is doing very well! She just married her sweetheart, Jim, they had the most beautiful wedding this April! Holly is now in the midst of training for Ironman USA in Lake Placid NY this July. I'm not sure how she feels about my salute to her! She is a very humble person, and I think sometimes all of the bragging I do about my awesome sister may seem like a bit much to her. But she really is my best friend and my inspiration, and an inspiration to so many others! Words could never express how very proud I am of her!

Tell us about the Ulman Cancer Fund and your fund raising.
The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults is a wonderful organization. They provide support programs, education and resources, free of charge, to young adults, their families and friends, who are affected by cancer. It's estimated that around 65,000 15-39 year olds are diagnosed with cancer each year, and in the last 35 years, survival rates for this demographic have NOT improved. There are many cancer organizations out there, but few that deal with this specific age group. Young adults diagnosed with cancer face challenges many others might not have to deal with, such as delayed diagnosis, staying in school, feeling isolated from peers, or even lack of health insurance. I can not imagine what it must be like, fresh out of college and on my own for the first time, only to be blindsided with a cancer diagnosis. I am running the 2009 Baltimore running festival Marathon as a part of the Ulman Cancer Fund's "Team Fight". Not only am I "fighting" to raise money for this organization (I've pledged to raise $1,000) but I'm fighting to help raise awareness for young adult cancer survivors.

Tell us more about the Cancer to 5K program.
Cancer to 5k is one of the awesome programs funded by the Ulman Cancer Fund. It is a free 12-week training program designed to introduce and/or reintroduce cancer survivors to physical activity by providing them with the training program, coaches, encouragement and support necessary to complete a 5K . It was developed by my sister, Holly Shoemaker, who stayed very active throughout her cancer diagnosis and treatment. When you are sick, many may be quick to tell you to "take it easy" and "rest". But there are numerous benefits of exercise for cancer survivors, including stronger immune systems, decreased anxiety and fatigue, and fewer signs and symptoms of depression. It is a fantastic program, now in it's fourth season, and has been incredibly successful in helping numerous survivors achieve their goal of running a 5k. Some of them have already gone as far as running 10ks and half marathons, and a few are even training for their first full marathons! You can learn more about Cancer to 5k at http://www.cancerto5k.org/

Why do you run?
I run for so many reasons! First of all, because I CAN. There are so many people out there who would give anything to be able to run, or even walk for that matter. God gave me a healthy body, and I'll be darned if I'm going to let it go to waste! Second of all, I run because I love running. I may not always love the way I feel during a run, but I always love the way I feel after a run! I have a great T-shirt that says "running is cheaper than therapy". It's so true. Running clears my mind, keeps me sane in this crazy world, and gives me confidence. I love pushing myself to see what my body and my mind can do. I love seeing my training pay off in a P.R. or with an age group placement. And of course there are the health and physical benefits. It's nice to not have to wear "mom jeans"!

What advice would you give other runners?
Never forget why you love this sport. So many times we get caught up in numbers, miles, paces, that we get frustrated with ourselves. It can make you start to resent running, and that's not what it's all about.

What advice would you give running moms?
Make your running a priority, and don't feel guilty about it. So often I hear other moms make excuses like "oh I just don't have the time to run (exercise, etc). There just aren't enough hours in the day". For a second, it makes me feel a little selfish, putting my running in front of other things. But then I realize that not only am I benefiting, but so are my children. They have a happy, healthy mother who is teaching by example how to lead a healthy lifestyle. What will my boys remember in the long run? Their strong, confident mom or the fact that the house was spotless? I'm not saying to totally forget the housework, but the laundry pile isn't going to self destruct if it must wait until tomorrow morning.

What advice would you give family and friends of someone going through cancer diagnosis and treatment?
I would tell them to just be supportive. If anything, I regret not being there more for Holly during her treatment. I was at a very different place in my own life at that point, and I am very thankful that we have become so close since then. But just BE there for that person. Do your research. There are MANY organizations , such as the Ulman Cancer Fund and the LIVESTRONG organization, that are out there to support and help not only the patient but the family as well.

What do you do when you aren't running?
I am headed back to school full time this fall to finish up my bachelors degree in exercise and sports science. I spent three years in school as a marine science major, feeling kind of lost and uninspired. I took 5 years off from school before returning and switching to this program, and I definitely have my love for running to thank for it. I sometimes joke that when I grow up, I want to be Richard Simmons. But I'm only sort of joking! I want to inspire and help people to make fitness a part of their life.
I currently work full time as a bartender/waitress at a beach front restaurant. For fun, we love to go to the beach as a family ,which we are very blessed to have easy access to here in South Carolina! I love to surf, although I don't get to do it nearly as much these days (they don't make anything equivalent to the jog stroller in the surfing world!) I love to blog, and when I'm inspired, i love to scrapbook!

You have two beautiful children - tell us more about them and what they are into now. How does that affect your running?
Thank you! Yes, I have been blessed with two wild boys. Rowen is two and a half, and in the middle of the famous terrible twos! He actually isn't that bad, just likes to push Mommy and Daddy's buttons to see exactly what he can and can not get away with! And Kain is now 7 months old, and his favorite thing to do is roll across the floor. You put him down and he's on the other side of the room in the blink of an eye! As I mentioned earlier, it's all about working my run in around them, whether they come with me in the jog stroller or I can leave them at home with Dad. Either way, I still manage to squeeze the run in!

Have you named your Garmin?
Ha ha, yes. His name is "coach". Coach Garmin. I love him and I hate him all at the same time! He pushes me to run faster, but sometimes takes the "fun" out of running. So Coach and I have been trying to find our perfect balance.

Favorite music while running?
Oh this is a tough one! I don't run with music very often, for safety reasons. I never run with music while pushing the kids in the jog stroller, or while racing. But on the treadmill or the occasional solo run when I like to zone out, I find loud, upbeat music works for me. I love the collaboration "Collision Course" between Linkin Park and Jay-Z. The whole CD pushes me!
Any parting comments?I just wanted to say THANK YOU for allowing me this outlet to spread the word about the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults and Cancer to 5k! If anyone wants any more information, or would like to visit my fundraising page. I'm so glad to have found the Runner's Lounge, and access to runners all over the country!

Great Day for TEAM FIGHT

An unbelievable weekend for the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults and TEAM FIGHT. The weekend was kicked off by a very generous group of volunteers helping at the Columbia Triathlon Packet Pick-Up. We could never think of doing any of this without the support of our Voluteers. THANK YOU ALL!

The TEAM then assembled for a pre-race dinner with over 70 people in attendance. Inspirational and emotional stories we shared by survivors Sylvia and Laurel further connecting the TEAM to the reason why we were all there. 70,000 Young Adults are diagnosed with cancer every year. Survival rates have not improved in over 30 years! This is unacceptable and TEAM FIGHT’ers have stepped up in force to get noticed and make a difference.

Coach Kevin was kind enough to share his story of his good friend “Ironman Dan” who recently lost his battle with Leukemia earlier in the month. Thank you for sharing Kevin and thank you to Colleen for telling the story of Dan’s fight in a way that we could connect even further.
Race day came before the sun came up and actually I don’t think we ever saw it through the clouds and rain. But, trust me, there was no way it could rain on our parade. There was so much positive energy that morning. The support that each and every one of the TEAM FIGHT’ers received on the course was truly inspirational. As I rode my bike on the course I could hear a chorus of “GO TEAM FIGHT” every time I needed it most.

During the time I spent on the bike I had time to reflect on what this race was about to me. The race was about people rallying together for a great cause and uniting to create awareness about the support that is necessary for the Young Adult Cancer world! New friendships were forged and those observing the race HAD to have recognized the group of triathletes decked out in YELLOW and BLUE having the time of their lives.

TEAM FIGHT was privileged to have a pre-race meal with the eventual 2009 Columbia Triathlon 1st and 3rd place finishers, Bec and Laurel Wassner. I had chills as I heard their names as I went out on the bike course to the cheers from the thousands of fans on hand. What an unbelievable accomplishment and what a prideful way of representing TEAM FIGHT. You will never hear bragging from the Wassner’s. BUT you will see them FIGHTING each time they hit the course.

Thank you all so much for your support. You have all contributed in such a powerful way. We are hopeful, optimistic and we are making a difference in the fight for young adults affected by cancer.

Brian
UCF Assistant Director

BRAIN CANCER at 22 years old?

BRAIN CANCER at 22 years old? Does this really happen? Not only does it happen it happened to me. March, 2004 my world came to a screeching halt. I began having severe pain on the back left side of my head and became increasingly dizzy. After being misdiagnosed 3 times, I had an MRI that showed the orange sized tumor rapidly growing on the back of my brain.

I was immediately rushed to the hospital. On Sunday, May 21st, 2004 I had a successful 7 ½ hour brain surgery removing the entire tumor. I was in the Intensive Care Unit for 2 weeks following surgery. Doctors told me there was a less than 5% chance the tumor was cancerous. A week and a half later I was given the devastating news. I had cancer!

Because the type of cancer I had, Medulloblastoma, is most commonly found in children I was referred to a doctor at Children’s Hospital in Washington, D.C. There, I was treated by the guru of Medulloblastoma’s and a wonderful team of Pediatric Oncologists. Along with my neurosurgeon, they are the reason I am alive and doing so well today. I was given a plan of action and began cranial/spinal radiation shortly there after. Radiation is the most important key in fighting this type of cancer in adults, but it took a huge toll on my body. I was nauseous and tired all of the time. I lost all of my hair. I stayed with my parents during treatment and visited my husband of 1 ½ years on the weekends. We had just moved into our new house a week prior to my surgery and I was always happy to go home!

Radiation therapy does not take long (about a minute). For me, that minute was pure hell and seemed like forever. I would lie on my stomach with my head clamped into a device that should only be used on criminals as a form of torture. Three weeks into radiation I developed appendicitis and had surgery to remove my appendix. As a result, this delayed radiation a week and sent my doctor’s into a tailspin. Radiation is never supposed to be interrupted…especially for an entire week. Chemotherapy was an option, but, to me, the risks outweighed the benefits. I declined chemo treatment.

The vast amount of radiation I received has caused problems that I still battle to this day. About three years after treatment was completed I developed cataracts in both eyes. They grew very quickly, so I had surgery to remove them. The spinal radiation caused my stomach to become paralyzed, so this makes it very hard for me to digest food. I take medicine that helps, but I have to be very careful with what I eat. To me, these are just minor problems that are under control and I’m thankful to live a relatively “normal” life.

I will be five years cancer free this May! I was told after my treatment that I would never have children. My son turns 2 in June. I’ve learned that doctors are great in many ways, but they do not know everything. Having an unwavering faith, supportive husband and family is the reason I am as strong as I am today. I am truly lucky to be alive and I am thankful that I’m able to be a part of an organization as wonderful as the Ulman Cancer Fund. I felt very isolated going through cancer at 22 years old. As a result, my goal is to work with the Ulman Cancer Fund to be a friend and advocate for as many young adult cancer patients and survivors as I can.

Kelly Ruszala

Young Adult Cancer Survivor

"Help One Person"

Best said by Doug Ulman and echoed in a recent blog by Laurel Wassner, “if he could just inspire or help one person in some way, then he'd be happy.” As I reflect on Young Adult Cancer Awareness week, I am trying to understand how I “fit” into the bigger picture. I thankfully have not had to personally fight this dreaded disease, but have met many amazing people in the last few months that stare cancer in the face every day and every minute. I wonder how I would fight. How I would deal with cancer?
I am truly inspired by those I have met who are fighting, each in their own way. I have made some great friendships that have truly opened my eyes as to what living really is about. When I embarked on this new journey with the Ulman Cancer Fund, I truly had no idea what I was getting into other than I knew it “felt” right and I am still not sure what that means.
We are making great progress here in these very tough economic times. We are forging ahead with a renewed strength and focus on our mission. New relationships are being built and old relationships are being strengthened. New faces have been brought on board and familiar faces have stepped up to new levels.
So, where does Brian fit in? HERE! As Doug and Laurel reminded me, if I can make one person’s life a little better, a little easier, isn’t that what it is all about? As I was sitting with a new friend yesterday, who happens to be a survivor, watching her 4 month old smiling and bouncing on her leg, I realized that I am seeing things in a new light. Thanks Sylvia! I am trying not to take for granted what I have in my life. A great family and great friends are not givens in everyone’s life. I am thankful for what I have been blessed to have and appreciate it more than ever.
As time moves on in this journey, I can’t imagine what is in store for the future, but I promise you I will do my best to help more people and have a positive impact in the community in which my daughters will grow up.
So I look to the fighters and I smile. I look at the picture above of my friend Laurel who is always smiling as she competes in events that challenge her physical ability. I want to thank them all for helping me understand where I fit in!
Be good and smile!
Brian
UCF Assistant Director

Thank You from the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults

Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our Annual Gala "Eleven-The Event" with Vern Yip. You are truly making a difference and helping to raise awareness and funds in support of Young Adults affected by cancer and their loved ones.

Enjoy the Slideshow!

Thank you!

The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults Staff

Jessica's Story

I was 28 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2006. I had a routine breast exam as part of my annual check-up. Although she told me that I had nothing to worry about, my primary care physician recommended a follow-up ultrasound and mammogram.

As it turned out, I had a lot to worry about. Two days after Christmas I learned my biopsy results: cancer. Less than two months later, I received another blow. The pathology report from my mastectomy indicated invasive ductal carcinoma. Not only had I lost my breast but I was going to lose my hair as well. 17 days after my first chemotherapy infusion (which landed me back in the hospital because I got so ill), my long straight hair started to fall out in clumps and my now-husband, Michael, found me crying on the bathroom floor.

But we pulled it together and didn’t miss a beat. We drove to a salon that sees women undergoing chemotherapy and got our heads shaved bald. The process was strangely empowering at a time when I had little control over anything else. From that day forward, at least outside the office, my preferred head covering was nothing. . . just my shiny bald head.

In the week before my last infusion in June 2007, two things happened. Michael proposed to me, and I accepted. And, along with 8 supportive friends, I walked the Komen Race for the Cure to celebrate the end of my treatment and our successful efforts to raise over $20,000 to support Komen. I was proud of my efforts, but all of those signs on race day – “in loving memory,” “we miss you mom” – were too much for me. I tried a support group, but the stories of my fellow patients and survivors’ diagnoses, treatments and prognoses scared and overwhelmed me. The support group setting was right for some people but not for me.

Six months later, I found what I needed when I joined the cancer to 5K program, a UCF-supported training program that helps young adult cancer survivors prepare for a 5k road race. My fellow runners and I shared a struggle and a goal but we didn’t talk much about cancer while we were running. We talked about life, and work, and weekend plans. With them, I ran a 5k and then a 7-miler, and today, I am training for a half marathon with Team in Training. I have taken control of my physical fitness, and along with my improved physical health have come the confidence and emotional security that I needed.

I also learned that I didn’t want to avoid cancer patients and survivors as I initially thought. I simply wanted their companionship in a different setting. With that in mind, I wrote to UCF in the hopes that I could find another “quiet survivor.” UCF and Imerman Angels paired me with a breast cancer survivor in Chicago who is my age, with my same diagnosis and treatment, who has a professional career, and who is planning a wedding to the man who saw her through diagnosis and treatment. We email each other our stories and together, we are dedicated to living healthy and happy post-cancer lives.

But I will admit that a breast cancer diagnosis at 28 was shattering. Even for a fairly confident woman whose notions of self worth are not wrapped up in body image, losing a breast was traumatic. More than at any other age, I wanted to feel and look pretty. But after my surgery, my clothes didn’t fit quite right; they pulled to one side. I became self-conscious in the gym locker room. I felt that people on the street could look at me and tell that I was disfigured under my layers of clothing, or that they could see that my implant was larger than my natural breast. I would glance around a crowded bar or restaurant and think to myself: I’m all alone. These people have no idea what I’ve been through.

Because of my age, I also confronted issues of fertility. My doctors couldn’t tell me whether I would be able to have children after chemotherapy (I have since met many woman who have conceived after treatment). Although I didn’t want children at the time, I also didn’t want cancer to make this important life decision for me. So I consulted a fertility specialist about harvesting eggs. But in the end, I couldn’t bear the thought of injecting myself with the very hormones that fueled the growth of my hormone-receptive cancer. And, I couldn’t fathom delaying my chemotherapy to do it. So, I decided to take the risk that I might not be able to naturally or otherwise conceive. Michael was fully supportive, and I am thankful for that.

At a time in my life when everything should have been moving forward with an eye toward the future, my life plans came to a screaming halt. But despite cancer, Michael and I married in September, and I turned 31 in February.

My hopes for my 31st year? (1) no more cancer, (2) complete a sprint-distance triathlon.

Jessica Tanner

Breast Cancer Survivor

Yern Yip's Personal Connection to the Ulman Cancer Fund

Why Vern Yip Fights!

Come join the FIGHT.

www.ulmanfund.org

FIGHTING for Desiree

Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive. ~Harold Whitman

I am sitting in Houston, TX at MD Anderson with my dear friend Desiree who has relapsed a second time with lymphoma. The first time she fought was two years ago when I met her beautiful face. We were fast friends as we had so much in common. She has been a close friend, a fellow triathlete and my running buddy for 2 years. Desiree and I signed up for Ironman AZ this November to celebrate her victory over cancer….she will not be able to race due to the relapse. As well, she has 3 beautiful children. Ages 6,8 and 10…… I am sitting in the waiting room as she goes in to receive a 4 hour transfusion. Even though MD Anderson does a lot of things right…being in a hospital for JUST cancer patients will never feel ok to me. It makes it real, it brings it all back home.

I wanted to send word to your athletes. The injustice that cancer serves is not fair. And I am angry. I have observed since 9 AM and watched the walks of all those facing treatment, good news, bad news, new protocol….Cancer does not discriminate. Where I sit right now there are young and old, black, white & asian, upper class and lower class. Cancer doesn’t care that the economy is tanking or that we are trying to figure out a new health care system. Cancer doesn’t care if you have 3 children or hopes of having children one day. As active as it is…it has no REAL face. It carries the face of way too many people. There is no sense in who or why it chooses and that makes me angry. Nobody deserves this. As I walked around today and saw that MD Anderson has to add 600 more beds, my stomach dropped. I mean…they ONLY serve cancer patients, have an entire FLOOR for lymphoma and they need 600 more beds??? Apparently there is a waiting list, which is why I bring my friend down for one day (3 hour drive one way) because a bed overnight is not an option right now.

I have been around cancer for about 6 years now. My brother, my grandfather, myself, my Dad….many close friends and those from afar and I won’t ever get used to it. I don’t want to. For those of your athletes that might need that extra push out the door to their Finish Line in May….maybe this email will help. My friend Desiree will not be able to train or run for a long time as the road ahead of her is quite long. Will you get out of bed and do it for her? Will you get out of bed, train your asses off and hope for hospitals with empty beds?

I would love that.


Colleen